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PRESS RELEASE |
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Paris, 27 October 2009 |
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 TThe Egyptian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, launched in November 2008, a single stage international project competition for the urban design of Ramses Square, in Cairo city centre. The subject of the competition was the urban redefinition of the square and its surroundings. It also sought a remedy for the major problems encountered in this part of the city, notably with regard to traffic flow, transportation, environmental, noise and visual pollution, and the identification of the various spaces.Thirty-five projects were presented to the international jury. Chaired by Abdallah Abdel Aziz, the jury was composed of Abdel Mohsen Barada, Sameh El-Alaily (Egypt), Diana Agrest (United States), Axel Schultes (Germany), Eliseo Arredondo (Mexico) Claire Bailly (France), and Soheir Zaki Hawas (Egypt) sat as deputy members. Alexandru Beldiman (Romania) was UIA representative. The first prize was awarded to the AREP-BECT team led by architect Omar El-Hosseiny. In this project, the jury particularly appreciated the creation of a true urban plaza and the emphasis put on the importance of public transportation. The addition of new cultural institutions and activities together with green spaces create a new node of attraction in the city. The second prize was awarded to Paul Gerard Quilligan (Ireland) and the third prize to Nimet Aydin (Turkey). Informationramses@urbanharmony.org www.urbanharmony.org |
